According to travel accounts from the late 19th and early 20th century, the Mangbetu considered knives with curved blades to be emblems of prestige. Consequently, they were never worn in a belt but instead were carried in the right hand or sometimes hooked over the shoulder. In form, this one, with its blade of highly forged iron, is an elegant elaboration of a utilitarian bush knife. The figurative treatment of the handle indicates it came from a time period noted for its expanded trade and gift giving.
According to travel accounts from the late 19th and early 20th century, the Mangbetu considered knives with curved blades to be emblems of prestige. Consequently, they were never worn in a belt but instead were carried in the right hand or sometimes hooked over the shoulder. In form, this one, with its blade of highly forged iron, is an elegant elaboration of a utilitarian bush knife. The figurative treatment of the handle indicates it came from a time period noted for its expanded trade and gift giving.
Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo
source:http://africa.si.edu/collections/view/objects/asitem/3130/74/title-asc?t:state:flow=5821f400-91aa-4d69-95d7-246607d2d4db
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